Franklin County Man Accused of Insurance Fraud

RALEIGH -- Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey today announced the arrest of John Nicholas Kostandin, 50, of 5083 NC 56 Hwy, Franklinton; he is charged with one count each of insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators accuse Kostandin of filing a fraudulent claim for hail damage to his automobile with GEICO Indemnity Insurance Company. Investigators allege the claim was a duplicate and the original claim was paid in April 2016.

Kostandin was arrested on May 25 in Franklin County and placed under a $5,000 bond.

"According to the FBI, insurance fraud costs the average family between $400 and $700 per year in the form of increased premiums,” said Commissioner Causey. “Consumer protection is my number one priority and I will continue to fight insurance fraud with your help."

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.